Herbal Tea Uva Ursina

Bearberry

FAMILY: Ericaceae

Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) is a plant with small, spatula-shaped, evergreen leaves with creeping and leathery branches. The fruits are small red berries (drupes) with a not very pleasant taste, containing an acidic and floury pulp that is not edible. Belonging to the Ericaceae family and native to Northern Europe, Asia and North America, it holds the scepter of the most useful natural remedy against cystitis. Traditionally, the decoction of bearberry leaves was used for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties and especially for the treatment of urinary infections.

The main components of bearberry:

• Hydroquinone glucosides (arbutoside or arbutin, methylalarbutin);

• Hydrolyzable tannins;

• Iridoid glycosides (monotropein);

• Flavonoids (myricetin);

• Terpenoids (alpha- and beta-amyrin, uveol, ursolic acid).

Bearberry: Properties and Benefits 

• Stimulation of diuresis: thanks to the presence of ursolic acid, this plant is able to stimulate the kidneys, thus ensuring a strong diuretic effect.

• Astringent: thanks to the precious presence of tannins, the leaves have astringent properties, managing to counteract the excessive production of mucus of inflamed tissues.

• Disinfectant: this is an indispensable action to eliminate bacteria and is very useful especially in case of inflammation of the urinary tract such as cystitis or prostatitis.

• Benefits for the skin: excellent method to lighten skin spots and in fact for its active ingredient arbutin is very appreciated in cosmetics. The excessive use of bearberry could, however, dry out the skin too much so it is recommended to first apply a good moisturizer.

• Support for the liver: thanks to the presence of flavonoids, rich in antioxidants, bearberry helps to dispose of excess toxins.

• Counteracts cystitis: its active ingredient arbutin is the natural remedy when you want to counteract cystitis. Arbutin is in fact a molecule that arrives directly in our intestines, then releasing its power and acting against the bacteria that cause cystitis. 

Bearberry: Preparation

INFUSION: 1 tablespoon leaves of Bearberry, 1 cup of water

1. Bring the water to a boil.

2. Pour boiling water over the dried leaves of Bearberry.

3. Let stand for a few minutes. Strain and drink 3-4 cups a day.